The Royal Jew From Swaziland

An accidental encounter with Hebrew alters the destiny of an African prince.

The story of every convert to Judaism is a gripping tale of spiritual discovery. In the case of Natan Gamedze, that journey began 40 years ago in Swaziland, where he was born into a royal family.

Gamedze casts an imposing royal figure, but it is his intellectual capacity that makes the biggest impression. Graduated with honors from Oxford, he received a master's in translation from South Africa's Wits University, and served as translator in the Supreme Court of South Africa.

Gamedze's gift for language -- he is fluent in 13 languages -- played a central role in his discovery of Judaism. After many years of study, Gamedze is now a rabbi and teaches Jewish studies in the northern Israeli city of Tzfat where he lives with his wife and son .

Aish.com: Let's begin by verifying facts. Is it true about your being an African prince?

Gamedze: I am indeed. I grew up in Swaziland until the age of 8. It's a small, land-locked kingdom that borders on South Africa and Mozambique -- about the size of Israel, with just over a million people.

Aish.com: Were you in line for the throne yourself?

Gamedze: My grandfather was king. But the British, who had colonized southern Africa, created the states of Swaziland, Bosutoland and Bechuanaland. They drew artificial borders, very often failing to take into consideration the ethnic distribution. So in many places, different ethnic groups were lumped together in the same state. That is what happened to us. And the British chose to recognize a rival royal family as the ruling group.

In order to win our cooperation, they made certain concessions to our family -- such as granting ministerial posts -- and we have a semi-autonomous region within Swaziland. My father served as minister of education and ambassador to the EEC countries. Today, it's more like a paramount chief than a king, but they do wield power.

Aish.com: Which languages do you speak?

Gamedze: I speak 13 languages: French, German, Italian, English, Hebrew, Afrikaans, Zulu, and other African languages. Everyone in my family speaks at least two European languages; my mom speaks about 7 or 8.

Aish.com: It is unusual, to say the least, for someone of your background to find his way to Judaism.

Gamedze: I was never interested in religion, per se. I was interested in what was going on in the world. What is our reason for being here? Okay, so you get up in the morning, you eat, go to work, have a shower, watch TV, go to bed, get up and start all over again... Hey, I did that yesterday!

I felt that life was like being on a conveyer belt, and eventually you get off. So what was the point?

I felt that life was like being on a conveyer belt, and eventually you get off. So what was the point? I couldn't accept that.

Aish.com: An existential question.

Gamedze: Yes. In other words, I wasn't searching for a way to give my life meaning. Rather, I was trying to find out what was going on, like a detective. I felt there's something going on in this world, something behind the scenes. And I wanted to know what it is.

Aish.com: If you weren't looking for religion, how did you find it?

Gamedze: I was sitting in a boring Italian literature class one day. I think we were studying D'Annuncio. And as people do when they are bored, they look around, and I noticed some guy was writing backwards in funny letters. So after class I asked him what he was doing. He said he was doing his Hebrew homework. I thought: That's really interesting. Imagine if I could write like that! And then I forgot about it. But later on, I needed a credit to complete my degree. I wanted to take Russian, but I had a scheduling conflict. Then I remembered about Hebrew. It fit my schedule, and so I began studying it.

Aish.com: So what was the moment of awakening?

Gamedze: The first text we got was the biblical passage of the Binding of Isaac. Coming as I did from a moderately Christian home, I was familiar with the text, but I was surprised at how Hebrew appeared to convey much more than could be conveyed in any other language. I couldn't figure it out.

But what was so compelling was that I thought it was telling me something about myself. It was like opening an inner dimension that perhaps many people don't even know exists. It wasn't like an archeologist trying to find out about, say, ancient Incans, an interest which has really nothing to do with him. Here, I felt it was telling me something about myself. I thought it had to do with the language itself. I didn't know at the time it was the religious dimension.

Aish.com: And from there?

Gamedze: I began to discover the beauty of Judaism. I got interested in Maimonides' Mishneh Torah. I would carry it around and read it and tell my Jewish friends about it, who later became observant. It was a bit strange that the very person who was bringing them closer to Judaism wasn't Jewish.

I figured the best thing would be to get away from all this Jewish business. So I went to Rome.

But it was frustrating. I couldn't understand why I had such a thirst and love for Judaism, and not be Jewish. And yet there were Jewish people who couldn't care less, it appeared. Not only that, but when they did decide to get interested, it was easy for them. The opportunity was right there. I asked myself: Why am I out of the picture? I couldn't understand why God would play such a trick on me.

At that point, I figured the best thing would be to get away from all this Jewish business. So I went to Rome to study. I visited St. Peter's and saw the artwork. I'm a great fan of Italian literature and art. But while in Rome all I could think about was the suffering of Jews at the hands of Christians. So it wasn't so enjoyable...

Aish.com: Sort of a ruined Roman vacation…

Gamedze: Yes. I had gone to Rome to get away from the whole thing -- Rome is probably the “least Jewish” place in the world. And there I was in my hotel room, and thinking about -- what else? -- the Jews. I particularly thought about how a Jew says “Shema Yisrael” before giving up his life for the faith.

At this stage, I had not yet taken on any Jewish observance. But I decided to say “Shema Yisrael” there in my hotel room by St. Peter's. When I did so, I felt an enormous surge of energy. As I was saying it, I felt that all those people who had given up their lives for Judaism were saying it with me. I felt as if I were a channel through which they were saying Shema. To this day, I can't explain what happened there. It was a frightening and very powerful experience.

I remember once, I went down to have breakfast. I sat down to eat, and I couldn't eat. And I was hungry, mind you. What's going on? Now by that time I had attended some lectures on Judaism while I had been I in Israel, and so I remembered that there was one day in the year, Yom Kippur, when Jews don't eat. So I went to check the calendar, and of course, that day was Yom Kippur! I was shocked.

I had told my Jewish friends that the only time I'd consider converting to Judaism is if I couldn't sleep at night. Well, it had come to that. I decided to convert.

Aish.com: Was that decision the hard part or the easy part?

Gamedze: I knew the road was going to be extremely difficult. Wherever I'd go in the Jewish community I'd stick out like a sore thumb, the only black guy in the room. I'm not the kind of person who likes to be in the limelight, and from now on every time I walk into a synagogue it's going to be, "Is he really an African prince?" How terrible. But I had a talk with God, and I said to Him, "Well, if that's what You want -- that's it."

Wherever I'd go in the Jewish community I'd stick out like a sore thumb, the only black guy in the room.

Sometimes a person has ups and downs in life, and he's not sure he's doing the right thing. And he often doesn't do the right thing. So at least this one thing, I was confident I'd got it right. It's a big mainstay.

Aish.com: Did you ever figure out why God played this "trick" on you -- why your journey would have to be so difficult?

Gamedze: I only discovered the answer to that a few months ago. I was teaching a class on the biblical Jethro, trying to convey what kind of special person he was. And I remember what I had heard many years ago from Rabbi Moshe Carlebach, who said that the first time the phrase Baruch Hashem (“Blessed is God”) appears in the Bible is when Jethro -- a convert -- praises God for saving the Jews from the Egyptians.

The whole idea of a convert is that of Baruch Hashem, of bringing additional glory to God. That's why Jethro's Hebrew name is derived from the word yeter, which means “adding on.” Because, as someone coming from outside the Jewish people, who is Jewish by choice, he gives additional glory to God. Not that God lacks anything, but in our eyes, we see it more.

As I was saying this in class, I heard a voice in my head saying, Nu? Now you know why you have to go through all this -- for the additional glory. My story is not about how comfortable it is for me. It's about glorifying God. That's why I have to be so different, because only the outsider, whose Jewishness comes with great difficulty, can make this unique contribution. The big question that had been baffling and hurting me for so many years was answered.

Aish.com: But it's still hard?

Gamedze: It is, but I don't view it the same way now. It's God's world, after all, and we are His creatures. With all the fancy scenery and background, it's almost like a movie. God says to Himself: "How do you get people interested in Judaism?" So he arranges for an African prince to come around, to make people take notice and think about things. Yes, it's hard for me. But it's all about what God wants, not what I want.

Visitor Comments: 69

(69)
Dr. Avraham,
April 30, 2013 4:35 AM

similarities so powerful

B"HMy journey from Christian child, finding out I was partially Jewish at 16 in a nearly all White Anglo Saxon Protestant world to becoming a deacon, priest and then converting to Judaism, becoming a rabbi and converting again to become Orthodox and finally an Orthodox Jewess doctor living in Israel,... Yes, the process, the journey is a kashering process, a refining of gold so to speak that has many tears, many painful and ostracising moments in it, but within the neshama, facing Hashem, there is a dot as profound as the dot in the letter Bet that makes all the reasoning clear; this is who I am,...I am a Jew!

(68)
R.C.I,
January 13, 2011 4:18 AM

He can do more, and should!

The prince should use what he has to help his people. Sub-Saharan Africa is in a mess today. Families are falling apart, Narcotics usage is booming. Intolerance, especially of the religious hue is booming. And in spite of the resources in the area, the people are dying of poverty, ignorance, and curable diseases. The place needs Judaism. The prince should start from his homeland to teach and diseminate ethical monotheism, so that we can see changes.

(67)
Leonard,
September 27, 2010 3:35 AM

Very Inspiring Story

Very Inspiring Story. Reading it again and again. Have seen only last half of the film on TV 2 years ago. Would love to meet the man in person. Next year.

(66)
maureen,
April 11, 2010 5:31 AM

We saw a 1 hour special on Australian television about this great man & recorded it for future reference - good to see someone open to where God leads them, either through the Christian or Jewish faiths. As Christians personally we have always believed we should support our Jewish friends & brothers, and he's reight - his conversion brings more glory to the Almighty. I hope more Jewish people dig deeper into their own faith through his conversion.

(65)
Meira,
March 5, 2010 12:00 AM

Excellent Story

I can definitely relate to this wonderful story. I have been trying to convert to Judaism for five years. I'm poor, so i don't even have the money to buy a Siddur. But i do have a chumash, i am learning to read and speak Hebrew from my home and i have tried to convert to Orthodox only to be turned down several times.
But now i see why. It's to give g-d additional glory. I will not stop trying to convert but it does seem hard at times.
Thank you for this story. ...

(64)
antonio shlomo pereira,
July 6, 2008 7:43 AM

he's a hope for us

After reading about Rabbi Natan, I see that there is still hope and place for b'ney anussim.

(63)
Michael,
June 14, 2008 2:56 PM

Blown away

Have just seen Nati's story on TV this evening.
Being S.African it was even more amazing and touching.
What a journey and a great story.
The non-connection that so many Israelis
have with Judaism-Nati could be just the shaliach that we are looking for to get them "back on track"
Looking forward to meeting this remarkable man.

(62)
Anonymous,
May 26, 2008 12:57 PM

Natan is a Great, Humble Man

I became religious at Ohr Somayach Yeshiva and had to relearn Hebrew. Who was teaching Aleph Beis? Natan (we called him "Noti"). He was regal in bearing but humble in speech. I had no idea about his story until 12 years later!

(61)
Blaise,
March 10, 2008 5:23 PM

What an amazing story

i lived in Swaziland for 5 years and never heard of this Great man, i'm planning to Isreal and definetly want to meet him

(60)
Yvonne Michele Anderson,
December 19, 2007 6:48 PM

What a Wonderful Article!

Shalom!

As an individual in the process of converting, I very much enjoyed reading the inspiring story of Natan Gemedze -

I loved how he spoke of his conversion with such an intimate voice, with such heart. Conversion is not an easy thing to understand, and how one feels about such an awesome process is can be difficult to place in words. Natan Gemedze has done so with eloquence and beauty.

May HaShem bring much joy to he and his family -

(59)
bikk schroeder,
October 29, 2005 12:00 AM

Great Subject And Article

Natan Gemedze is a remarkabke person who has the courage of his convictions,

I cannot tell you of my admiration and respec.t for him

(58)
Emunah Yishibah Gavriel,
October 29, 2005 12:00 AM

Gamedze Moved me in London

Shalom, I was drawn to this interview because I met the amazing Rabbi in London last year during his London tour. I was moved at his soul-stirring account of his spiritual journey. My own conversion paled into insignificance at the Prince's. The most evocative experience was his presence and aura. Thanks Aish. Emunah

(57)
Jennifer Rudner,
October 25, 2005 12:00 AM

FROM ONE AFRICAN TO ANOTHER

Honourable Rabbi. I am an African too. But I am a white South African Jewess who lives her Orthodox Jewish life in a very free South Africa. I am so proud to share my African roots with you. I am the mentor to a young Black South African chap ("my son") who is studying at Yeshiva presently and I keep on reminding him of you. How you inspire us both. May Hashem bless you and your family. Jenni

(56)
Lai Hon Leong,
October 24, 2005 12:00 AM

A Very Touching Story

A very touching story. I have one quite similar to Rabbi Gamedze but my version is much simpler. I found my way to Judaism albeit in an unusual way. Firstly, I thought that I wanted to be a Jew but then I found out I need to convert to be a Jew. This is somewhat frustrating because there's no Synagogue in Malaysia. So I think, is ther any alternative path? I began searching and found this wonderful website. Here I found out about the 'Sheva Mitzvot' for Gentiles. I was so excited and I feel tremendously at home. However, my contact with Judiasm started with Hebrew learning too. It's an odd way to begin my service to G-d but if He Wants it this way, it will be this way. Baruch HaShem!

(55)
Ann,
October 24, 2005 12:00 AM

Yes! Yes!

I read your story and I am starting to understand more about what I also have experienced. I am 1/2 Native Indian. (US)I was raised with my Indian family. However, I never realized that I was always drawn to Jewish people. I had a Jewish friend from school who invited me to her home, and the minute we walked in the door I just felt "at home" and I never understood it. It always stood out in my mind growing up and I could never figure it out.
I also was saddened to read the cruel history of the church and how they forced people to convert. I also come from the same background with the church abusing Native Indians and it effects are still painfully alive.
Well, I recently found out that my grandpa came from Austria and changed the family name, so the name I grew up with is not "original." I believe in my heart that he was a Polish Jew. I am going back to my hometown to get family records soon.
I felt this surge of energy you talked about and I can't really explain it. I am drawn by the music and sing "Lev Tahor" often. I wanted to find out what I was singing and found it online..it means "Create in me a clean heart." That is my heart's desire.
Life is a journey and I thank God that He is faithful. Ann

(54)
kimani thumbi,
October 21, 2005 12:00 AM

this is wonderful

Im surprised and happy to read this story.I am a Afrcan livin in south Africa now and i watched Natans story on SABC channel and I loved him so much.i have been thinking of how to send him an e-mail i didn't know how. I personally love Israel and I know their History n even how christians persecuted them calling themselves crusaders.I keep the jewish feasts even the big day of Yom Kippur-Oct 13th last one.I pray for the peace of Jerusalem.If all the people of the world would know the true Religion! the world would be at peace-n they would all be looking for the Messiah n forget about Rome and Mecca.I am happy to be a friend of Israel and a practicing Jew.if its possible I would like to tell BROTHER Natan that he is not alone here in Africa.if its acceptable or possible I would like to write an e-mail to him.Aish.com help me.thanx kimani

(53)
Alex,
October 20, 2005 12:00 AM

wow

Great story.I am a south american mother and grandmother trying to get there.I know how difficult is. I wouldn't mine some advise.

(52)
Anonymous,
October 17, 2005 12:00 AM

raised secular...I crave Jewish truth and community.

I am looking for a Reconstructionist
mix of tradition and progressive thought.
I highly respect ethnic/spiritual
diversity...and...
I am trying to make peace with myself
and respect not only my "humanity"-
I was raised as a secular Jew...
but also my uniqueness...if I don't
practice like an Orthodox Jew---I am
still-and I am--and will be always a
Jew---Vivre la difference!!!

This is beyond understanding but never
outside my heart...

I love hearing Hebrew prayer. I love
to question and study. I am a connoiseur
of languages---a writer/poet...
I aspire to be spiritually universal...
There should be joy in returning-HOME.

We are all a part of a Holy Covenant-yet
we all have different names...
When we are called to choose may we
live the difference 'tween idolatry/
despotism and delusion and truth,respect
equality and freedom...
and discover different paths...

I look forward to my e-mailings,etc.
I look forward to exchanging,sharing
becoming and learning,always learning...
expecting deep surprise---with the
darkness the blessing of sunrise...

(51)
Mervyn,
October 17, 2005 12:00 AM

Why love and fear of Hashem should help our obessions with self

Few months ago I walked into shul for davening and saw " a black skined person" with a yarmulke on. Having grown up in apartheid South Africa despite my abhorrence of racial discrimation practised in its society,my yetsa hora got the better of my thoughts, as I thought who is this person, until I saw his tzizit handing out. Straight away I realised that this was the honourable Rabbi Natan Gamedze, who I heard about but did not know. Davening right behind him that day on an ordinary week-day was an inspirational treat. Whilst it is human instinct to be concerned with ones self, be it appearance or otherwise, we should all strive to transcend our self by constant focus on serving Hashem and glorifying Hashem, instead of being concerned about being in our own comfort zone, as Rabbi Gamedze clearly puts it, when asked about his difficulties.

(50)
Volvi,
March 10, 2005 12:00 AM

Heard him today on Tovia Singer show

I was introduced and heard for the very first time today of this honorable Rav on the Tovia Singer show. Just by hearing the man on the show aside his wonderful story my impressions were that I was listening to a true Tzaddik. His humbleness and modesty shone through. He wonders why Hashem has 'played this trick' on him and why was he not incarnated as a Jew to begin with. I say as the arrow when drawn the furthest backward does the arrow travel so much further. So is it with him by having his background so far from Judaism was he able to travel so much further then by being born Jewish. "where a Ger or Chozer Bitshuvah walks fear you to tread" As is the King David dynasty and our coming Moshiach (bimheirah beyameinu)come from a convert by the name of Ruth, such greatness was to her merit. Be'ezrat Hashem I will one day meet Rabbi Natan Gamezde when next in Tzfat. Chazak U'Baruch.

(49)
Michoel,
November 24, 2004 12:00 AM

To anonymous, This paragraph from another wbsite answers your question

"His father, Aaron Gamedze, Swaziland's former education minister and its high commissioner to the UK, began travelling around the world with his large family when Gamedze, the middle child, was eight years old."

(48)
Anonymous,
November 18, 2004 12:00 AM

Yes

I come from Saziland. I know him but would like him to be more explicit about his history and the royal connection. Unless I am mistaken, is his father Rev. A B Gamedze?

(47)
Shelly K.,
November 10, 2004 12:00 AM

Rabbi Gamedze: It takes a special person to be in touch with the truth in his soul, to listen to it and act on it. You are an inspiration to me.

Rabbi Gamedze I am sure Hashem smiles on your every day as do the angels in heaven. Your comittment to TRUTH and acting on it is an example for all of us. I think it is fantastic you live in Israel as a Jew, but is there anything you can give back to the Swazi people whilst living in Sfat?

(46)
Baruch & Rachel Lebovits,
August 6, 2004 12:00 AM

Reb N. Gamedze an inspiration to all

Thanks to Reb Chaim of Yerushalayim for introducing us to Nati, we had the most wonderful Shabbos experience in Sefat, the high point was Shabbos morning at R. Nati's table listening to his Dvar Torahs and Stories. I'll never forget it.

(45)
Marion I. Lipshutz,
March 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Good Wishes to Rabbi Gamedze!

There is something remarkable and very inspiring about Rabbi Gamedze's story - the spiritual power that he felt the first time that he said the Shema; the aversion from eating that he felt on the day that he discovered it was Yom Kippur.

For me, Rabbi Gamedzi's odyssey is part of the fulfillment of the Zionist dream and a confirmation of Judaism's vision of the holiness of G-d pervading the Oneness of humanity. Beneath our ultimately superficial, external physical differences, we the Jewish People are One! I hope that each day will make life less difficult for Rabbi Gamedzi, as we the Jewish People learn to fully embrace this insight.

Rabbi Gamedzi and I represent different ways of being Jewish. I am a feminist and drawn to Reconstructionism; he is Orthodox. But we are united in our love for being a part of the Jewish people.

May he and his family enjoy every blessing that life has to offer!

I am grateful for his example of courage. Moreover, as I struggle to maintain my understanding of French and Spanish, and continually vow to learn more Hebrew--I much admire Rabbi Gamedzi's erudition in 13 languages!!

(44)
Anonymous,
June 17, 2003 12:00 AM

THIS STORY IS TRULY UNBELIEVABLE. MAY HASHEM GIVE HIM ALL THE BEST. HATZLACHA IN THE FUTURE.

(43)
Tammy Berman,
June 3, 2003 12:00 AM

Kol Hakavod

(42)
Sally Dominguez,
June 3, 2003 12:00 AM

Awesome and inspiring

This was truly one of the most inspiring articles I have ever read. His story is one of courage and the search for truth. May Hashem continue to bless this man and his family.

(41)
Leron,
June 2, 2003 12:00 AM

Truly Inspiring

Truly Inspiring

(40)
eo,
May 29, 2003 12:00 AM

simply amazing and what a wonderful man

yes, being Jewish is difficult and being a brown Jewish person is most difficult indeed, but, then when you see the difficulty as a result of serving god and not man, it is all worth it in the end...baruch hashem and may you be forever well..

(39)
Anonymous,
May 29, 2003 12:00 AM

wow

I really think your story is great it so nice to see what the judism does and what it really is. i hope that soon masshiach will reedem us and we will see the third bais hamikdas be build and that all jew will realize the truth and come back to their faith.

(38)
Isabelle,
May 28, 2003 12:00 AM

great

As a potential convert I was obviously moved by this beautiful story. Thanks for letting us know about it.

(37)
Tammy Duprey,
May 28, 2003 12:00 AM

Awesome!!

R. Gamedze,
You are an inspiration to me. I am also a ger, and black (originally from England). It's important for you to tell your story, so that others may know and recognise that they are not alone. Yasher koach!

(36)
Jeremy Segal,
May 26, 2003 12:00 AM

Thank you for the happy news of R. Gamedze's success

Thank you for the wonderful interview with R Gamedze. It reminded me of some very enjoyable times we had in 1986/7, parking off on campus. Please send my regards to him. Bayete Nkosinathi.
Jeremy Segal

(35)
MB,
May 25, 2003 12:00 AM

Nati brings a kiddish G-d

Thankyou Rabbi Gamedze for the choices you made; for becoming a Rabbi and sharing your story and for sure many more. You make people look into judaism.

(34)
Michelle K.,
May 25, 2003 12:00 AM

Wonderful Article

I have been thinking about why being Jewish is so important and now I see

(33)
Reb Chaim,
May 24, 2003 12:00 AM

A Prince Among Us

Add Yiddish to the other language that our Prince Nati speaks. I am certain that all who read about Prince Nati will awaken to Hashem's calling. I've only met Nati a few weeks ago, but I plan on knowing him for the rest of my life. Thank you Hashem for bringing us Prince Nati.

(32)
Hillel Abramson,
May 22, 2003 12:00 AM

Nati an Inspiration

Fantastic, moving article! I had the privilege of hearing it in first person back in the mid-90s. Nati, if you read these comments, look me up and say hello! Hillel

(31)
evie wasosky,
May 22, 2003 12:00 AM

Very interesting, fascinating story.

This is a very interesting, and fascinating story. I always wonder why people choose to convert and after hearing their stories, I'm convinced that it's Hashem who chooses them. Hashkacha Protas.

(30)
Chezi Goldberg,
May 21, 2003 12:00 AM

Better In Person

THe article is fantastic.

As someone who had the priviledge to learn with Rav Nati I can tell you that he is even more fascinating in person. And along with him being a fascinating story and person, it is humbling to learn from someone who chose to be Jewish and accomplished such incredible levels in Torah understanding.

Ahhhhhhhhhh...

Best part of this article is that now I got to find out the REST OF THE STORY.

Imagine, how special our life must be if Nati left the Kingdom in Swaziland for its benefits.

Makes me stop and think if I appreciate my yiddishkeit as much as I could and as much as I should.

Warmest regards to Rav Nati and his family.....

(29)
Tzvi,
May 21, 2003 12:00 AM

Great

This story is really cool. I think that people do not realize how much Divine providence guides the world. In the case of this royal figure, there can be no denying it. His Majesty can serve as a source of strength for those wishing to enter the Jewish People, and a powerful reminder of the special heritage that those born into it already possess. Thank you, Aish for lifting my work day.

(28)
robert lobel,
May 21, 2003 12:00 AM

Astonishing

Really heartwarming and it gives me faith in the world of man...that man can truly be better than he is....is this not the story of Avraham? Like the Swazi prince, he left all the schmutz behind and set off on a course of spirituality. Well done your highness!

(27)
lauren,
May 20, 2003 12:00 AM

good to hear about Rabbi Gamedze again

spent a great shalosh seudos with Rabbi Gamedze in Tzfat in december, so it was nice to learn a bit more about him and again be revitalised by his amazing journey.

(26)
David Ronthal,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

Thanks for the update.

I was at Wits with Nantie in the 80's, and it was a pleasure and a real eye opener to discuss vaious topics with him, even in those days.

It's great to hear about him again. Yasher Koach

(25)
Anonymous,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

african prince becomes positive jew

The story is inspiring , a combination of the rational and the suprarational, the comments about baruch hashem were eloquent

(24)
Barry,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

Excellent

What a touching story about this African prince who converted to Judaism. The gentlemen is an inspiration, and I appreciate his intellecutal depth combined with great sensitivity. He is a man whom I would be honored to meet.

(23)
Daniel,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

Ultimate courage

The story about this gentleman is extremely inspirational - more than anything else, I marvelled at his courage. To tackle what he was feeling, and to have the courage to convert under those circumstances is truly amazing. "Kol Ha Cavod"

(22)
Mawloud Ould Daddah,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

Extraordinary

Extraordinary!!!!!

(21)
David Merrill,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

Hebrew foundation

It is wonderful how many beautiful revelations follow exposure to the Hebrew language and its twenty-two letters.

(20)
Anonymous,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

very interesting and very moving.We enjoyed reading his story as he sounds brilliant.

(19)
Anonymous,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

An Inspiring Teacher

Rabbi Gamedze was such an inspiring and wonderful teacher to me. Last year, I had the privilage of attending the women's seminary in Tzvat of where R' Gamedze teaches. I really don't think I ever missed a class of his. He is really that good. I connected with his shiurim because they were very deep and real. He is a special man with such a holy neshama and if you ever happen to be in Tzvat, I wouldn't miss the oppourtunity to meet such a Tzadik.

(18)
Sharon Kerr,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

G-d's Mystical Hand at Work

I especially liked Gemedze's summary;
"But it's all about what God wants, not what I want".
Isn't that the truth!

(17)
Benzion,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

God makes His choices

in sometimes unpredictable ways.
This "prince" should be a great eye opener to many "lost" Jews. Such great intellectual abilities and urge for understanding must inevitably lead to the discovery of Judaism for there is nothing else like it.

(16)
ross labadie,
May 19, 2003 12:00 AM

inspirational

i to am undergoing conversion and find this story gives me added inspiration

(15)
moshe,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Helped my road to hebrew as well...

When i came to israel over 10 yrs ago i wasnt really too interested in judaism. i took an 'ulpan' class with NATAN as my teacher! lets just say it was quite an inspiration to have an african prince teaching a little jewish boy hebrew. seeing him study talmud in the study hall of my yeshiva was a true inpriration and helped my journey in jewish ideas! thanx natan and thanx to aish.com for the article.

(14)
Joseph K.,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Todah ravah dear Aish!
Kol tuv.

(13)
Moriah,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Thank you for sharing

I am inspired by your story. I would like to tell
other people (Jews and non-Jews) that Israel is the only place that everyone can feel comfortable in - there is no racism, Jews of all "colors" and background are welcome there. Israel is home. I wish I am home already.

Yasher Koach,
Moriah (another ger, who is an Oriental Jew).

(12)
Margy Hope,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Not the only black

I would like Natan to know that he is by no means the only Black Jew. True it is a minority, but Judaism is not defined by race and in general, Jews take on the physical characteristics of the land in which they reside.

(11)
Leah,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Congratulations to both Aish and Natan for this worderful article. What a beautiful tale! This is how it was meant to be from Mount Sinai. Yitro set the example by being the first ever true onvert. That's why the 10 Commandements is given in the section Yitro.

Is is not the Jewish destiny to share the Light of the Torah with whoever trully desires to Receive its Awesome Light? What does it mean "To be Light to the World"?

I am touring Israel soon, Tzaf is the "home" of Kabbalists. I intend to Visit Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and the ARI gravesites. I would love to visit Nathan and his family too.

Shalom Aish, Shalom Nathan.

(10)
aaron fox,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

truly inspirational

in my humble opinion, this is the greatest article that aish has ever posted!

(9)
Anonymous,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

its all about what G-d wants, not what i want.

its really cool that someone coming from a position of a prince where everything could have been "what i want goes" is now making himself subservient to G-d and putting his own wants aside.that to me is so amazing and inspirational!

(8)
Anonymous,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

fascinating

Enlightening article both for the
basic facts and the insight into Judaism

(7)
aron,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

one of the great stories around today

i used to study in tzfat with "Reb Nati" he truly is an amazing person

(6)
Mario,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Interesting Article

I found the article intersting. However, not enough was stated about his conversion.

(5)
Adam Kahn,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

Baruch HaShem

that special, sincere converts help us all come closer to HaShem. Yashar Koach, Natan.

(4)
Danny Katz,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

inspired by natan

I remember Natan when I was in yeshiva in Jerusalem a little over 10 years ago. When I saw Natan in the Beis Medrash or I asked him a question on Gemara, I was very inspired. I was always blown away that a convert can be so knowleldgeable and committed. It definately helped me in my own committment to Judaism, Baruch Hashem. Thank You Aish for printing this article.

(3)
laurey(leora),
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

BARUCH HASHEM

hearing rabbi gamedze speak in tsfat was one of the main reasons that i decided to go to the school where he is teaching. he is such an inspiration, and a true Kiddish Hashem....having him as my teacher is one reasons i can sincerely say BARUCH HASHEM

(2)
Cory Schwartz,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

I loved this story about the African Prince!

It touched me.

(1)
Denise Rootenberg,
May 18, 2003 12:00 AM

What an amazing story

Coming from Zimbabwe, I know how extraordinary it is for this to happen.

I just got married and have an important question: Can we eat rice on Passover? My wife grew up eating it, and I did not. Is this just a matter of family tradition?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

The Torah instructs a Jew not to eat (or even possess) chametz all seven days of Passover (Exodus 13:3). "Chametz" is defined as any of the five grains (wheat, spelt, barley, oats, and rye) that came into contact with water for more than 18 minutes. Chametz is a serious Torah prohibition, and for that reason we take extra protective measures on Passover to prevent any mistakes.

Hence the category of food called "kitniyot" (sometimes referred to generically as "legumes"). This includes rice, corn, soy beans, string beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, mustard, sesame seeds and poppy seeds. Even though kitniyot cannot technically become chametz, Ashkenazi Jews do not eat them on Passover. Why?

Products of kitniyot often appear like chametz products. For example, it can be hard to distinguish between rice flour (kitniyot) and wheat flour (chametz). Also, chametz grains may become inadvertently mixed together with kitniyot. Therefore, to prevent confusion, all kitniyot were prohibited.

In Jewish law, there is one important distinction between chametz and kitniyot. During Passover, it is forbidden to even have chametz in one's possession (hence the custom of "selling chametz"). Whereas it is permitted to own kitniyot during Passover and even to use it - not for eating - but for things like baby powder which contains cornstarch. Similarly, someone who is sick is allowed to take medicine containing kitniyot.

What about derivatives of kitniyot - e.g. corn oil, peanut oil, etc? This is a difference of opinion. Many will use kitniyot-based oils on Passover, while others are strict and only use olive or walnut oil.

Finally, there is one product called "quinoa" (pronounced "ken-wah" or "kin-o-ah") that is permitted on Passover even for Ashkenazim. Although it resembles a grain, it is technically a grass, and was never included in the prohibition against kitniyot. It is prepared like rice and has a very high protein content. (It's excellent in "cholent" stew!) In the United States and elsewhere, mainstream kosher supervision agencies certify it "Kosher for Passover" -- look for the label.

Interestingly, the Sefardi Jewish community does not have a prohibition against kitniyot. This creates the strange situation, for example, where one family could be eating rice on Passover - when their neighbors will not. So am I going to guess here that you are Ashkenazi and your wife is Sefardi. Am I right?

Yahrtzeit of Rabbi Moses ben Nachman (1194-1270), known as Nachmanides, and by the acronym of his name, Ramban. Born in Spain, he was a physician by trade, but was best-known for authoring brilliant commentaries on the Bible, Talmud, and philosophy. In 1263, King James of Spain authorized a disputation (religious debate) between Nachmanides and a Jewish convert to Christianity, Pablo Christiani. Nachmanides reluctantly agreed to take part, only after being assured by the king that he would have full freedom of expression. Nachmanides won the debate, which earned the king's respect and a prize of 300 gold coins. But this incensed the Church: Nachmanides was charged with blasphemy and he was forced to flee Spain. So at age 72, Nachmanides moved to Jerusalem. He was struck by the desolation in the Holy City -- there were so few Jews that he could not even find a minyan to pray. Nachmanides immediately set about rebuilding the Jewish community. The Ramban Synagogue stands today in Jerusalem's Old City, a living testimony to his efforts.

It's easy to be intimidated by mean people. See through their mask. Underneath is an insecure and unhappy person. They are alienated from others because they are alienated from themselves.

Have compassion for them. Not pity, not condemning, not fear, but compassion. Feel for their suffering. Identify with their core humanity. You might be able to influence them for the good. You might not. Either way your compassion frees you from their destructiveness. And if you would like to help them change, compassion gives you a chance to succeed.

It is the nature of a person to be influenced by his fellows and comrades (Rambam, Hil. De'os 6:1).

We can never escape the influence of our environment. Our life-style impacts upon us and, as if by osmosis, penetrates our skin and becomes part of us.

Our environment today is thoroughly computerized. Computer intelligence is no longer a science-fiction fantasy, but an everyday occurrence. Some computers can even carry out complete interviews. The computer asks questions, receives answers, interprets these answers, and uses its newly acquired information to ask new questions.

Still, while computers may be able to think, they cannot feel. The uniqueness of human beings is therefore no longer in their intellect, but in their emotions.

We must be extremely careful not to allow ourselves to become human computers that are devoid of feelings. Our culture is in danger of losing this essential aspect of humanity, remaining only with intellect. Because we communicate so much with unfeeling computers, we are in danger of becoming disconnected from our own feelings and oblivious to the feelings of others.

As we check in at our jobs, and the computer on our desk greets us with, "Good morning, Mr. Smith. Today is Wednesday, and here is the agenda for today," let us remember that this machine may indeed be brilliant, but it cannot laugh or cry. It cannot be happy if we succeed, or sad if we fail.

Today I shall...

try to remain a human being in every way - by keeping in touch with my own feelings and being sensitive to the feelings of others.

With stories and insights,
Rabbi Twerski's new book Twerski on Machzor makes Rosh Hashanah prayers more meaningful. Click here to order...